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If you are a new matchbook collector, there are a few important things you need to know.
One of the first things you need to know is how to shuck a matchbook. This is the process of removing the staple and matches from the book.
In some exceptional cases, you may want to keep the matchbook intact. For example, the matches may have a design printed on them or a colorful staple that completes the design.
But in most cases, the matches and staple only serve to collect moisture, which leads to rust and mold. The jacket itself is the only archival and collectible part of the matchbook the majority of the time.
But how do you remove the staple and matches while keeping the jacket in collectible condition? Read on to find out!
Opening the Staple
The first step to matchbook shucking is opening the staple. This is the process of lifting the two prongs of the staple that lie flush against the back of the matchbook cover.
You can try using a staple remover for this step. This tool can be found at most office supply stores. All you need to do is set all four of the teeth of the staple remover just under the edges of the staple. Squeeze the remover with gradual but firm pressure, and the staple should begin to open.
However, some matchbooks require a more delicate tool than the stapler remover. Some printing processes leave the ink susceptible to scratching, and older matchbooks must be handled with care.
In these instances, it may be best to proceed with a letter opener or another small blade. It will not pry open the whole staple all at once, but you will have much more control over the process.
Pulling the Staple Through
Once the staple has been opened, it should be easy to remove the matchbook staple. You can use a staple remover or a blade for this step, but you can use your fingernail to do the job in most cases.
Though it may be tempting, do not rush this step. Sometimes a staple prong is more bent than you realize, and pulling it through quickly can be disastrous.
Discarding the Matches
Once the staple has been removed, the matches should fall away from that jacket.
But before you discard them, you should either burn them in a fire pit, fireplace, or another location where you know a fire can be safely lit. There’s a reason most matchbooks warn you to close the cover before striking. If you throw the unhoused matches right in the trash, an unexpected fire is more likely to happen than you think.
If you do not have a safe place to start a fire, you can try soaking the matches in water. The soaking time can vary with each matchbook, so let them sit for a while and try striking one. Once they stop lighting, you can toss the rest.
Always Shuck Your Matchbook
Like we said above, there may be the odd instance where the matches themselves are unique enough to be collectible. But most of the time, shucking your collectible matchbook covers is crucial to a long-lived matchbook collection.
If you found this article useful, your next read should be our guide on keeping your matchbooks free from weathering. Shucking is only the first step!
Wagner Match has specialized in providing impeccable service to the hospitality, entertainment and service industries since 1981.